- Matt James, star of season 25 of “The Bachelor,” is training for the upcoming Boston Marathon.
- His new routine includes protein shakes, weight lifting, and a strict schedule.
- To get in shape after the holidays, stop procrastinating and follow a plan, James said.
Former football player and “The Bachelor” star Matt James said a routine of lifting weights and eating protein is helping him get back in shape after a lazy holiday season.
Between running the New York Marathon in November and preparing for the upcoming Boston Marathon in April, James said he put on some weight with some holiday indulgences but returned to training hard.
“I gained 20 pounds, so I definitely enjoyed myself over the holidays. To get back into the right mindset, I think it’s important to develop a strict regimen and hold yourself accountable,” James told Insider in an interview coordinated by his association with the sports nutrition company. Dymatize.
Prioritizing protein, maintaining healthy habits and lifting weights helped him recommit to his fitness goals, he said.
Stop overthinking and start
Whether you’re new to the gym or returning after some time off, procrastination can be a big challenge when starting a fitness routine, according to James.
Instead of letting the details slow down your workouts, increase motivation and drive by jumping into any form of exercise, even if you start small.
“Just take the first step and go to the gym. I think people can doubt themselves because they don’t feel ready, but if you do your best, everything will fall into place,” she said.
James said asking a fit friend to recommend a gym or trainer, or even join you on a training session I can help overcome ‘gimtimidation’ and physical anxiety.
Make a plan and stick to it
James said her marathon training involves a strict diet and exercise routine, and hitting her goals early in the day is key.
“For me, it starts with my morning routine. If I miss a workout or start my diet off on the wrong foot, I’m more likely to have pizza for lunch, and then I’m back to square one,” James said.
While a pizza, an indulgent meal or a lack of training is unlikely to make or break your goals, it can be a problem if healthy habits are repeatedly escalated and derailed, experts say. he previously told Insider.
get enough protein
To keep his body in tip-top shape during training, James said he prioritizes protein, an essential macronutrient for rebuilding muscle tissue and maintain a healthy weight.
“When you’re running 50+ miles a week, your recovery plan is just as important as the race itself. So every morning I like to stretch, stay hydrated, and make sure I’m getting enough protein.”
His favorite milkshake includes chocolate. dymatize ISO100 whey protein, strawberries and bananas, nut butter and almond milk.
Lift weights, even if you’re a runner
In addition to racking up the miles, weightlifting is an important part of marathon training for James.
“I didn’t lift enough weight before the New York marathon, so when I’m not running, I like to isolate a muscle group and stretch after a heavy lift,” James said.
Strength training can help runners prevent injuriesimprove speed and endurance, and develop explosive power.
The experts say weights and cardio complement each other, so you don’t have to choose between them. Certain styles of weight training, such as high-volume workouts, AMRAPor supersets, can even improve your cardio, no more running required.
